Our third stop in the Greek Isles is Zakinthos (pronounced Za-keen-toes). It was an overcast day and we took a tender (small boat) from the ship into town. First we walked through the town square, Solomos Square, where our guide pointed out that the entire town was destroyed by an earthquake in 1953. The only exceptions were three and a half buildings. The half building was the church on the town square. The front and one wall survived but the rest collapsed.
Next we took a ride to a facility that presses olive oil. Here we were given a talk on how olives are harvested and then pressed for their oil. Afterward, we were given the opportunity to taste some of the local olive oil …
Next we drove up into the hills to the 14th Century Monastery of Anafonitria where Saint Dionysios, patron saint of Zakynthos, was abbot.
On the way back we stopped in Volimes, a traditional mountain village. As we began browsing the local shops and crafts, it began raining and everyone was forced to head for cover. Given the weather the decision was made to head back to town. We did stop for a panoramic picture of the town and the harbor but after that the rain just got worse.
When we got back to town it was pouring and we had to wait for our tender to come in and pick us up. After we were were thoroughly soaked, we were able to board the tender for a very rocky ride back to the ship …